There is no single definition of communication that is simple and fully encompasses all various facets of the word. One can consider a few approaches to understanding communication, depending on its cultural or rhetorical basis. It can be purposeful, direct, and unambiguous, or it can be quite the opposite. For the purposes of this paper, successful communication is defined as a process of constructing meaning that balances intentions with interpretations. According to Tracy and Robles, meaning is situated between intention and interpretation (2013, p.78). Consequently, when communication is less successful, there will be apparent disagreement about whether the intention or interpretation of the speech act is more important.
Standing and placing your hand on your heart during the national anthem is a patriotic act learned at a …show more content…
After discussing his intentions, Kaepernick gained support from those who agreed with his reasoning, and especially those who supported his right to free speech. In the transcription, Noah is defending Colin Kaepernick’s stated intentions of kneeling during the nation anthem, and Lahren is explaining how she, and many others, interpreted the nonverbal speech act. Noah begins in lines 1-4 and 8 by talking about various ways Kaepernick could have protested, but how none of those techniques seem to be “…the right way for a black person to get attention in America” (Noah & Lauren, 2016). These lines point out multiple speech acts that fail to communicate what people of color want and need in the United States. Noah defends Kaepernick’s protest because he believes that in this situation Kaepernick’s intention matters more than how the act may be interpreted. In lines 25-31, Noah explains how he can understand Kaepernick’s reasoning as a black man in America, and attempts to prove that the football player’s intention is more important than how others might interpret what he chose to
Standing and placing your hand on your heart during the national anthem is a patriotic act learned at a …show more content…
After discussing his intentions, Kaepernick gained support from those who agreed with his reasoning, and especially those who supported his right to free speech. In the transcription, Noah is defending Colin Kaepernick’s stated intentions of kneeling during the nation anthem, and Lahren is explaining how she, and many others, interpreted the nonverbal speech act. Noah begins in lines 1-4 and 8 by talking about various ways Kaepernick could have protested, but how none of those techniques seem to be “…the right way for a black person to get attention in America” (Noah & Lauren, 2016). These lines point out multiple speech acts that fail to communicate what people of color want and need in the United States. Noah defends Kaepernick’s protest because he believes that in this situation Kaepernick’s intention matters more than how the act may be interpreted. In lines 25-31, Noah explains how he can understand Kaepernick’s reasoning as a black man in America, and attempts to prove that the football player’s intention is more important than how others might interpret what he chose to